Return to Wisteria (Book Three of the Wisteria Chronicles)

CHAPTER 19~Demon Lord~

Dimitri 

      Mom’s hands were shaking as she reached out to me. “Dorvina, you finally came.” she said quietly. “Of course, I did. I would have come sooner but my wife was feeling a little bit lonely today.” Dorvina answered with a small smile. She sauntered over to me, her hips swaying. Goddess, it was impossible not to stare. Were all nymphs this beautiful? She walked around me in slow circles, her lips pursed.  

      “Very interesting. You've manifested your demon form with no assistance. I’m impressed.” she commented as she studied me. I was both annoyed and embarrassed. “Welcome back to Black Pines, Dorvina.” Auntie Phoebe said as she walked closer. Dorvina’s eyes lit up, “My little hybrid!” She ran to her and pulled her into a tight hug. My mouth dropped when Dorvina’s hand began to roam Phoebe’s body. 

    Dorvina purred as she tucked her head into Phebe's neck. Uncle Titus cleared his throat, peeling Dorvina off of his wife. “Alright, that's enough.” he said gruffly, pushing Phoebe behind him. Dorvina giggled, “Don't be so greedy, Titus. We can share.” Phoebe squeaked and hid her body further behind her husband. 

     “Are you here for Dimitri? Mom asked. Dorvina’s sharp gaze quickly refocused on me, “Yes, the Underworld has gone too long without one of its lords. It's time to return.” she stated. “What will be expected of me?” I asked. Dorvina smiled, “Everything. You're expected to manage your territory and care for your people. You're expected to learn the ways of a demon Lord and to lead by example.” 

     I clenched my fists; it was already too much. “You're also expected to attend court with the other royal supernaturals of the Underworld.” Dorvina finished. Summer tsked, “It sounds like you're gonna be an Alpha.” Everyone stared at her in confusion. “What? He has to lead and protect his people like an Alpha does. He has to attend court like royals here have to serve in the Council. The only difference is that you'll be in the Underworld.” Summer explained with a shrug. 

    My heart hammered in my chest, she made it seem easy. “Yes, that's one way to interpret it.” Dorvina murmured, her gaze curious as she studied Summer. Nova busted into tears, “Does he really have to go?” Dorvina’s eyes widened as she took in Nova's appearance. She stalked over to her and cooed. “You look just like your mother,” she inhaled deeply. “You smell like her too.  Tell me girl, who do you think you're fooling with that necklace?” 

      Nova sniffled and shifted uncomfortably, “What do you mean?” “To an untrained eye your aura looks weak but I know better. Work hard to suppress it or you'll find yourself and some unwanted trouble.” Dorvina warned. Nova bobbed her head in compliance, “Will Dimitri be able to come back?” Dorvina laughed, “He’s a demon Lord, he can do whatever he wants but his duty is to his people comes first.” 

    She said it with a cold finality. I felt sick; I don't want this enormous responsibility. I don’t know anything about leading people. I don't wanna fail them. Dorvina sent me a sultry smirk, “Don't be intimidated, boy. I'll be there to help you.” Titus snickered, earning a glare from my mother and Phoebe. “Are we allowed to visit him?” Mom's voice quivered. 

     Dorvina let out another peel of laughter, “You're the mother of the twelfth demon Lord. You are royalty and can come and go as you please. However, Dimitri needs to fully establish his place first. It will take a few months before he will be free to leave or visit the house of  Togmenaz.” I shook myself and summoned my courage, “When do we leave?” 

    Dorvina sighed as she plopped down into a chair, quickly claiming a plate of food. “Now. Say your goodbyes. We will send someone to bring your belongings later.” her mouth already full of food. My family surrounded me with hugs and goodbyes. Idris threatened that he was going to change my room into a second office. Nova was a blubbering mess and Summer gave me a speech of encouragement. 

     Uncle Titi and Auntie Bee told me I was going to do great things. I hugged my mother last. “You're going to be just fine, baby. It's not going to be easy and you're gonna wanna quit, but I have nothing but faith in you. You are not your father; you are so much more. Go and make me proud.” she whispered in my ear. 

      I choked back my tears and released her; I didn’t want to leave. “I’m ready.” I announced Dorvina took one last bite of her cake before she stood up. “Phoebe, don't forget to come by. Titus can come too.” she winked. Phoebe’s mouth flapped about as she tried to speak. Dorvina giggled and grabbed my hand. “Come on.” she said, warping us to the Underworld. 

       I stood in awe of the castle before me. It was three stories high and made of black and white marble. It was surrounded by large columns and lush green scenery. “It's huge!” I exclaimed. Dorvina flicked her hand, “We had it completed last week. It used to be bigger. The original floor plan had dozens of rooms meant to hold slaves so we removed them. We also got rid of a few torture rooms. It's nice and cozy now.” 

     I paled out her words. I was reminded again that this place was once a living hell. How was I supposed to be ok with living in the same place where my father tortured and killed his people? Dorvina led the way inside, pushing open the French double doors. “Where is everyone?” I asked, the castle was weirdly quiet. “Your servants haven't been selected yet. You will pick them tomorrow. You will also select your first and second in command.” Dorvina explained. 

    “So, they're supposed to be my Beta and Gamma?” I asked. Dorvina smiled, “Yeah, something like that. They will assist you with the day to day activities of the land.” I clenched my fist. How was I supposed to pick someone so important in a day? I didn't trust anyone here and they probably hated me because of my father. “Once your household is settled, you will go to court and meet your betrothed.” Dorvina continued walking down the hall. I stopped dead in my tracks, my ears ringing, “Betrothed?”  

     Dorvina turned, “Yes. The court has arranged your marriage and the gods of the Underworld approve of your pairing.” My face went numb, “But what about my mate?” Dorvina shrugged “Your demon traits overpower your wolf. The chances of you having a mate are very low. It’s honestly a miracle that you were even gifted one. Didn't your right wolf explain that to you?” Shadow whimpered, proving that he already knew. 

     “With the war coming up, and it will be here soon, the children of Midhaven need a united front. That is why your marriage has been decided. You and your future wife will bring the Underworld together.” Dorvina explained then continued to walk. I followed her with heavy footsteps, my mind in shock. 

   My future was already planned and I had no say. Shadow howled loudly, how were we supposed to live without a mate? We are destined to live alone. Our chances were low, but that didn’t mean our mate wasn’t out there. I can’t accept this marriage; I need to find a way out of it. Dorvina stopped in front of a door and pushed it open. “This is your room.” she gestured inside. 

    I stepped past her and stood in the dark entrance. “Welcome home, Lord Togmenaz.” she said as she closed the door. 

 August 

        I walked outside to clear my mind. A f*****g war was on the horizion, but I was trapped by my obligation and duties to the Council. I couldn’t protect anyone from here, I needed to go home. Ever since Summer told me about the mole, I’ve been restless. The Council set Summer up and it was bullshit. I turned down multiple missions and requested that Summer stay away for a while. It was getting harder to stay here. I was constantly uneasy, my body on high alert; it was f*****g exhausting.  

    “Hey, August. The head office is looking for you.” Hudson said as he approached me. I groaned, “What the f**k do they want?” Hudson chuckled, “I don’t know, but they’re probably gonna chew your ass out for denying their missions.” I rolled my eyes and thanked him. I made my way over to the main office, mentally preparing myself for a lecture.  

   I knocked on the door and waited for a response. “Come in.” an ancient voice bellowed. I stepped inside, surprised to see the three founders waiting for me. “Thank you for coming to Alpha Frost. We apologize for the sudden meeting.” Founder Olivia said. “But we have a special assignment for you.” Founder Iosai murmured. ‘One that is strictly between us.” Founder Lucas added. 

   I clenched my fists and gritted my teeth, Pharaoh started to pace. So, it is true; the Council is corrupt and this is how they issued out their disgusting secret missions. “There’s no need to be so weary of us, Alpha Frost. Judging by your reaction, I’m assuming you’ve heard the rumors of the spy within our ranks.” Olivia guessed; I nodded my head. “Brilliant, that’s why we called you here.” Lucus’s old voice echoed. “We want you to conduct an internal investigation.” Iosai declared. 

    I licked my dry lips, “Why now?” Lucas heavily sighed, “Someone is purposely trying to discredit the Council. We’ve worked too hard and built up our reputation for centuries. Someone is spreading lies, insinuating that we had something to do with the recent rogue attacks.” “This of course, is false information. We want to help the people, not harm them.” Iosai added. I furrowed my brow, if the founders aren’t responsible then who is? 

    “We also cannot deny that our efforts to enforce the rules and keep peace between all supernaturals are being tampered with. Somehow, our investigations go cold. Our enemies are waiting, fully prepared for our teams. Our people are dying because classified information is being leaked.” Lucas advised. “A rogue agent.” I blurted out. “Yes. There is a traitor among us and they must be found.” Olivia finished. “Will you accept this mission?” Iosai asked. “Yes.” I answered without hesitation.  

    “Good, bring the traitor forward as soon as possible. You are to tell no one. If word gets out about an internal investigation, the mole will be harder to catch. You’ll also jeopardize yourself as well as the lives of those you told. You have access to all of our records so use them wisely. Be careful, your mission starts now.” Lucas said, then dismissed me. My mind was running wild as I made my way back to the dorms. My focus was broken when I smelled a familiar scent.  

       I crossed my arms and leaned against the wall. I watched Autumn sneak out of her room, quietly closing her door. She tiptoed down the hall with silent steps. Every day she would leave at random times and not return for several hours. Her hair was always a mess and her clothes would be covered with dirt and leaves. Her cheeks were bright and flushed, and her lips swollen. It was clear as day that she was creeping around to meet with Archer. 

      I was happy that her mate accepted her, but he was dangerous and so was his deadbeat brother. There were too many unknowns with them. Why were they at Spring Creek? What were they planning? The Summons twins had been damn near impossible to find for over a decade. They suddenly decide to make a reappearance during a rogue attack. This wasn’t a coincidence. They were up to something and I wanted to know what.  

   Autumn creeped closer so I cleared my throat. She let out a sharp yelp as she clutched her chest. “Damn it, Auggie. You scared the hell out of me.” she grumbled. I eyed her carefully, “Are you on your way to see Archer?” “Yeah, he-” she covered her mouth, her eyes wide with surprise and guilt. “How did you know?” she whispered. I shrugged, “It’s kinda hard not to notice. You disappear for hours then come back disheveled. You also smile a lot more when you return.” 

    Autumn paled and started to stammer, “I, uh, I-I can explain.” I raised my hand to stop her. “It’s ok, Autumn. You're not committing a crime; you’re just creeping around like you are. I know you’re out with Archer, his scent is all over you. I’m just worried.” Autumn blushed, “You don’t need to be worried. I trust Archer.” I patted her shoulder as I walked by, “It’s his brother that I’m worried about. Please be careful.”  

   I walked into my room and laid down on the bed, my mind heavy with my new mission. Hmm, access to all of the Council’s records. This would be a good opportunity to look into the m******e of the Wisteria Forest pack. Mom was still haunted by it; she hasn’t been able to go back after all of these years. I’ll find the traitor and bring Mom some peace.